What the world learned or adapted from native Americans: the use of the extract for painkillers

If you’ve ever taken Panadol or Paracetamol, did you know North Native Americans created this medical treatment? The origins of key substances in paracetamol (acetaminophen) trace back to Native American medicinal knowledge of the willow tree (Salix species). Native Americans used willow bark to relieve pain and reduce fever due to its active ingredient, salicin, a precursor to modern pain-relieving drugs. This natural compound inspired the development of aspirin, which influenced subsequent research into other analgesics like paracetamol. The Cherokee and various indigenous tribes of North America, particularly in the eastern regions, were known for using willow bark for its pain-relieving and fever-reducing properties. Today, pharmaceutical companies have synthesized these natural compounds into modern medicines, including Panadol, while building on indigenous knowledge of natural remedies. The global pain management drugs market was evaluated at US$ 81.15 billion in 2023 and is expected to attain around US$ 120.16 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4% from 2024 to 2033.